BBC Sport’s club-by-club preview of the 2026-27 League Two season expects another closely contested campaign, with Salford City tipped for promotion and York City returning to the EFL after a decade away. The guide assesses each club’s prospects before the opening weekend, focusing on ambitions, recruitment, strengths, weaknesses and players who could prove decisive.

– Accrington Stanley aim to improve on last season’s 16th-place finish, having added striker Cole Stockton and several non-league recruits. Their prospects may depend on avoiding injuries and keeping experienced attacker Shaun Whalley fit.
– Barnet, who finished eighth in their first EFL season after seven years away, see the play-offs as the minimum target. Manager Dean Brennan’s leadership is viewed as a major asset, although a small budget, key departures and the need for new signings to settle could hinder them.